The Power of Diplomacy in Resolving Regional Disputes

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Over the years, the world has witnessed several regional conflicts that pose significant challenges to international peace and stability. Prime example of which is Ukraine crisis which started in 2014 and continues till date. 

The conflict that started between Ukraine and Russia because of a political dispute quickly escalated into a war in which many innocent lives were lost and a lot of destruction took place. 

Despite the dire circumstances, the power of diplomacy has proved to be an important instrument in resolving regional disputes.

Ukraine Crisis: What is it?

Ukraine is a nation the size of Texas sandwiched between Europe and Russia. Until 1991, it was a part of the Soviet Union, and since then it has been a less than ideal democracy with a very weak economy and a pro-Russian and pro-European foreign policy that is optional.

In 2013, President Viktor Yanukovych rejected an agreement for further integration with the European Union. This sparked widespread protests, which Yanukovych than tried to quell forcefully. Yanukovych was supported by Russia during the crisis, while the demonstrators were backed by the US and Europe.

Many significant events have taken place since then. Yanukovych was driven out of the nation in February as a result of anti-government demonstrations. The following month, Russia attacked and annexed Crimea in an effort to regain its lost influenced in Ukraine. Eastern Ukraine’s separatist militants started annexing territory in April. 

On July 17, the rebels mistakenly killed 298 people when they fired down Malaysia Airlines flight 17. As fighting between the rebels and Ukrainian forces grew more intense and the insurgents began to lose, the Russian army openly invaded eastern Ukraine to back the rebels in August. 

All of this led to the worst state of relations between the West and Russia since the end of the Cold War. The Russian economy is on the verge of recession due to sanctions, and over 2,500 people have been killed as result. 

The Role of Diplomacy in Resolving the Crisis

Ukraine Crisis was such an issue which had become very complex and military alone could not resolve this issue. Diplomacy proved to be a very important tool in resolving the crisis, with some diplomatic efforts made since the conflict began.

• The goal of a flurry of diplomatic efforts was to defuse the situation.
• The United Nations played a significant role in resolving Ukraine Crisis. The United Nations helped millions of people who left their homes, provided shelter, medical treatment and food to those people. Also, the UN was involved in diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis. 
• The Minsk process was very helpful as it intended a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Kiev and the rebels supported by Russia within Ukraine.